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NOTE

OISD publications are prepared for use in the oil and gas industry under Ministry of
Petroleum & Natural Gas, Govt. of India. These are the property of Ministry of
Petroleum & Natural Gas and shall not be reproduced or copied and loaned or
exhibited to others without written consent from OISD.

Though every effort has been made to assure the accuracy and reliability of the
data contained in these documents, OISD hereby expressly disclaims any liability
or responsibility for loss or damage resulting from their use.

These documents are intended to supplement rather than replace the prevailing
statutory requirements.
 FOREWARD

The oil industry in India is nearly 100 years old. As such a variety of practices
have been in vogue because of collaboration/association with different foreign
companies and governments. Standardization in design philosophies and operating and
maintenance practices at a national level was hardly in existence. This, coupled with
feedback from some serious accidents that occurred in the recent past in India and
abroad, emphasized the need for the industry to review the existing state of art in
designing, operating, and maintaining oil and gas installations.

With this in view, Oil Industry Safety Directorate (OISD) was established in 1986
staffed from within the industry in formulating and implementing a series of self regulatory
measures aimed at removing obsolescence, standardizing and upgrading the existing
standards to ensure safer operations. Accordingly, OISD constituted a number of
functional committees comprising of experts nominated by the industry to draw up
standards and guidelines on various subjects.

The present document on fire protection facilities for petroleum Depots,

Terminals and Pipeline installations is the amended edition of the document prepared by
the Functional Committee on "Fire Fighting & Safety" which was published in July, 1989.
This document is prepared based on the accumulated knowledge and experience of
industry members and the various national and international codes and practices. It is
hoped that the provision of this document will go a long way to improve the safety and
reduce accidents in the Oil and Gas Industry.

This document will be reviewed periodically for improvements based on the new
experiences and better understanding. Suggestions may be addressed to :-

The Coordinator
Committee on 'Fire Fighting & Safety'
Oil Industry Safety Directorate
7th Floor, New Delhi House,
27, Barakhamba Road,
Connaught Place, New Delhi – 110001
 FUNCTIONAL COMMITTEE
(Complete Revision : August, 2007)

______________________________________________________________________
_

Name Organization
______________________________________________________________________
_

Leader

Shri Arvind Kumar Engineers India Limited

Members

1. Shri P. J. Tikekar Indian Oil Corporation Limited

2. Shri J. Y. Punegar Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited

3. Shri S. P. Garg Gas Authority of India Limited

4. Shri Shashi Dua Indian Oil Corporation Limited

5. Shri J. Jaisinghani Indian Oil Blending Limited

6. Shri P. S. Narayanan Oil India Limited

7. Shri D. K. Banerjee Indian Oil Corporation Limited

8. Shri S. Ramesh Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited

9. Shri A. Rajvanshi IBP Co. Ltd.

10. Shri M. N. Moharana Numaligarh Refinery Limited

Co-coordinator

Shri N. D. Kapaley Oil Industry Safety Directorate

Up to November, 2002

Shri A. Mishra Oil Industry Safety Directorate

April, 2004 - August, 2007

Shri B. R. Gadekar Oil Industry Safety Directorate

June, 2006 - August, 2007
______________________________________________________________________
_

In addition to the above, several other experts from industry contributed in the
preparation, review and finalization of this document.
 FUNCTIONAL COMMITTEE
(Second Edition : August, 2000)

______________________________________________________________________
_

Name Organization
______________________________________________________________________
_

Leader

Shri R. P. Bhatla Engineers India Limited

Up to 31-12-1994

Shri M. M. Kapoor Engineers India Limited

w. e. f. 01-01-1995

Members

1. Shri R.P. Saxena Oil & Natural Gas Corporation

2. Shri B. Balan Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited

3. Shri G.S. Wankhede Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited

4. Shri C.T. Anantkrishanan Indian Oil Corporation Limited

5. Shri S. C. Jain Indian Oil Corporation Limited

6. Shri H.K.B. Singh IBP Co. Ltd.

7. Shri V. Koti Indian Oil Corporation Limited (Pipeline)

Co-coordinator

Shri Vijay M. Ranalkar Oil Industry Safety Directorate

Up to July, 1996

Shri K. S. Ganeshan Oil Industry Safety Directorate

w. e. f. August, 1996
______________________________________________________________________
_

In addition to the above, several other experts from industry contributed in the
preparation, review and finalization of this document.
 FIRE PROTECTION FACILITIES
FOR
PETROLEUM DEPOTS, TERMINALS, PIPELINE INSTALLATIONS
AND
LUBE OIL INSTALLATIONS

CONTENTS

SECTION DESCRIPTION

1.0 Introduction
2.0 Scope
3.0 Definitions
3.1 Petroleum Depots, Terminals & Oil Installations
3.2 Classification of Petroleum Products
3.3 Flash Point
4.0 Fire Protection Facilities
4.1 General Consideration
4.2 Design Criteria of Fire Protection System
4.3 Fire Water System
4.4 Foam System
4.5 Clean Agent Fire Protection System
4.6 First Aid Fire Fighting Equipment
4.7 Mobile Fire Fighting Equipment
5.0 Fire Alarm/Communication System
5.1 Communication System
5.2 Fire Alarm System
6.0 Fire Safety Organization/Training
6.1 Organization
6.2 Training
7.0 Fire Emergency Manual
8.0 Fire Protection System, Inspection & Testing
8.1 Fire Water Pumps
8.2 Fire Water Ring Main
8.3 Fire Water Spray System
8.4 Fixed/ Semi Fixed Foam System
8.5 Clean Agent Fire Protection System
8.6 Hoses
8.7 Communication System
9.0 Reference

ANNEXURE

0. Sample Calculation of Fire Water Flow Rate for Storage Tanks.

0. Sample Calculation of Fire Water Flow Rate for POL Tank Wagon
Loading Gantry.
0. Sample Calculation of Foam Compound Requirement for Depot/Terminal
 0. Brief Description of Fire Fighting Foams.
0. Typical System of Automatic Actuated Foam Flooding System for Rim
Seal of Larger Floating Roof Tanks.

FIRE PROTECTION FACILITIES

FOR
PETROLEUM DEPOTS, TERMINALS AND PIPELINE/LUBE OIL INSTALLATIONS

1.0 INTRODUCTION

The petroleum depots, terminals & pipeline/lube oil installations are generally located in the
remote areas and near railway sidings. However, the experience shows that with the
passage of time, these get surrounded by residential/industrial installations. The inventory of
flammable materials stored therein necessitates inbuilt fire protection facilities.

It can be impractical and prohibitively costly to design fire protection facilities to control
catastrophic fires. The usual requirement of a good system is to prevent emergencies from
developing into major threat to the oil installation and surroundings.

2.0 SCOPE

2.1 This standard lays down the minimum requirement of fire protection facilities at Petroleum
Depots, Terminals, Pipeline Installations with or without Storages, Central Tank Farms
(CTF). Lube Oil Installations, Grease Manufacturing & Filling Facilities.

2.2 This standard does not cover the fire protection facilities for :-

) Depots, Terminals/Installations inside the Refineries and/or Oil/Gas Processing Plants under
the same management for which OISD-STD-116 shall be referred.
) Installations handling Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Storage, Handling and Bottling. The
same are covered in OISD-STD-144, OISD-STD-150 or OISD-STD-169 as the case may be.
) Drilling rigs, Work over rigs and Production installations (GGS/OCS, GCP/GCS, EPS,
QPS/WHI etc) which are covered in OISD-STD-189.
) Port Oil Terminals for which OISD-STD-156 shall be referred.
) Control Room Building & Electrical Installations shall be provided as per OISD-STD-163 &
173 respectively.

2.3 It is not intended that the provisions as specified in this revised standard should be applied
rigidly to existing premises. However, these provisions shall be reviewed considering
various hazards for implementation where for a variety of reasons, it may not be practicable
to comply with. This standard shall be applicable in selective implementation of the
recommendations at such locations for which a suitable structured approach should be
adopted to carry out the review at site considering various hazards. However, the additional
requirements shall be applicable to all new locations conceived after publication of the new
edition.

2.4 The fire protection and fire fighting requirement for the combined POL and LPG facilities in
the same premises shall be based on the following :-
 ) Each POL / LPG facility shall independently meet the design, layout & fire protection system
requirements of corresponding OISD standards.

) The fire water storage and pumping requirement can be considered based on single largest
risk of the combined facility.

) The fire water system shall ensure availability of pressure of 7 kg/cm2g at the farthest point.

) The entire fire water system shall remain pressurized and kept in auto mode as
recommended for LPG installations.

) The control of such facility shall remain with dedicated or LPG group.

3.0 DEFINITIONS

3.1 PETROLEUM DEPOTS & TERMINALS

A portion of the property, where combustible/flammable liquids are received by tanker,

pipelines, tank wagons, tank trucks and are stored or blended in bulk for the purpose of
distribution by tankers, pipelines, tank wagons, tank trucks, portable tanks or containers.

3.1.1 PIPELINE INSTALLATIONS

Pipeline Installations are those facilities on cross-country pipelines which have pumping
and/or delivery station with or without storages.

2.0.1 LUBE OIL INSTALLATIONS

The facilities meant for receipt, storage and blending of base oils & additives into finished
Lube products. It includes lube-blending plants, grease manufacturing plants & small can
filling plants.

3.1.3 AVIATION FUELLING STATIONS

The facilities where ATF is received by tank wagons, tank trucks & pipeline and stored in
bulk for dispatch of product by refuellers & pipeline. It also includes storage of
Methanol/AVGAS & other additives in drums.

3.1.4 INFRASTRUCTURE/OTHER FACILITIES

These are the facilities such as Control Room Building, Sub-Station, Diesel Generator (with
diesel storage tank), & Administrative Building, etc. provided in Petroleum Depots, Terminals
and Pipeline Installations.

3.1.5 HARZARDOUS AREA

An area will be deemed to be hazardous where :-

Petroleum having flash point below 65oC or any flammable gas or vapor in a concentration
capable of ignition is likely to be present.
Petroleum or any flammable liquid having flash point above 65oC is likely to be refined,
blended or stored at above its flash point.
 For classification and extent of hazardous area, refer "The Petroleum Rules - 2002".

3.2 CLASSIFICATION OF PETROLEUM PRODUCTS

3.2.1 Petroleum means any liquid hydrocarbon or mixture of hydrocarbons and any inflammable
mixture (liquid, viscous or solid) containing any liquid hydrocarbon.

3.2.2 General Classification

Petroleum products other than LPG which is a separate category, are classified according to
their closed cup Flash Point as follows :-

Petroleum Class A means petroleum having a flash point below 23oC.

Petroleum Class B means petroleum having a flash point of 23oC and above but below
65oC.

Petroleum Class C means petroleum having a flash point of 65oC and above but below
93oC.

Excluded Petroleum means petroleum having a flash point above 93oC and above.

Flash Point of any petroleum means the lowest temperature at which it yields a vapor which
will give a momentary flash when ignited.

3.2.3 Classification for Heated Petroleum Products

The locations where product is handled by artificially heating it to above it’s flash point,
Class C product shall be considered as Class B product and Class B product as Class A
product.

3.3 GENERAL TERMINOLOGY

Clean agent electrically non-conductive, volatile or gaseous fire extinguishants that does not
leave a residue upon evaporation and meets the requirements given in the latest NFPA
2001 on clean agent fire extinguishing systems in line with environmental considerations of
Kyoto Protocol.

Shall indicate that provision is mandatory.

Should indicate that provision is recommendatory as per good engineering practices.

May indicate that provision is optional.

3.0 FIRE PROTECTION PHYLOSOPHY

The fire protection philosophy is based on loss prevention & control. It considers that a
depot/terminal carries an inherent potential hazard due to flammable nature of petroleum
products stored therein. A fire in one facility can endanger other facility of the depot/terminal,
 if not controlled/extinguished as quickly as possible to minimize the loss of life & property
and prevent further spread of fire.

4.1 GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS

The size of product storage & handling facilities, their location and terrain determine the
basic fire protection requirements.

4.1.1 Layout

Layout of a depot or terminal, pipeline installation, lube oil installation, grease

manufacturing & filling facilities and handling/disposal system of blow down, drain from
equipment handling flammable liquids shall be done in accordance with OISD-STD-118 &
OISD-STD-109 as applicable.

Special consideration should be given in the plant layout & product line layout for heated
products lines laid alongside the pipeline carrying lighter petroleum products.

4.1.2 FIRE PROTECTION

Depending on the nature of risk, following fire protection facilities shall be provided in the
installation.
• Fire Water System.
• Foam System.
• Clean Agent Protection System.
• First Aid Fire Fighting Equipment.
• Mobile Fire Fighting Equipment.
• Fire Detection, Alarm & Communication System.

4.2 DESIGN CRITERIA FOR FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM

4.2.1 Facilities shall be designed on the basis that city fire water supply is not available close to
the installation.

3.1.1 One single largest risk shall be considered for providing facilities.

3.1.1 The hazardous areas shall be protected by a well laid combination of hydrants & monitors.
The following installations are exempted from this provision :-

) The installation having aggregate above ground storage capacity of less than 1000 KL
(Class A+B+C) other than AFS.
) Pipeline installation having only scrapper stations or sectionalizing valve stations.

3.1.1 Tank Wagon (TW)/Tank Truck (TT) loading/unloading facilities, Manifold area of product
pump house & Exchange pit shall be fully covered with a well laid out combination of
hydrants and water-cum-foam monitors.

3.1.1 The installations storing Class A petroleum in above ground tanks shall have fixed water
spray system.
 However, installations above 1000 KL storage fulfilling the following both conditions are
exempted from the provision of fixed water spray system :-

• Aggregate above ground storage of Class A & B petroleum up to 5000 KL.

• Floating roof tank storing Class A petroleum having diameter up to 9 m.

3.1.1 Class 'B' above ground Petroleum storage tanks (fixed roof or floating roof) of diameter
larger than 30 m shall be provided with fixed water spray system.

3.1.1 When Class A & B above ground storage tanks are placed in a common dyke, the fixed
water spray system shall be provided on all tanks except for small installations as
mentioned in 4.2.5.

3.1.1 TW loading gantries shall be provided with manually operated fixed water spray system. In
case automatic fixed water spray system is provided, the gantry may be divided into suitable
number of segments (each segment having min. length of 29.2 m length & width of 12 m)
and three segments operating at a time shall be considered as single risk for calculating the
water requirement.

Accordingly, a provision shall be made to actuate the water spray system from a safe
approachable central location i.e. affected zone and adjoining zones.

3.1.1 The fixed water spray system shall also be provided on all tanks, irrespective of diameter in
the installations constructed prior to publication of 1st Edition of OISD-STD-117 in July’1989,
where inter distances between tanks in a dyke and/or within dykes are not meeting the
requirements of OISD-STD-118.

3.1.1 Fixed foam system or Semi-fixed foam system shall be provided on tanks (floating roof or
fixed roof) exceeding 18 m diameter storing Class A or Class B petroleum.

3.1.1 Portable foam and/or water-cum-foam monitors shall be provided for suppression of pool fire
in tank farm area.

3.1.1 Automatic actuated rim seal fire extinguishing system may be provided based on foam or
clean agent flooding mechanism on floating roof tanks having diameter larger than 60 m.

This is in addition to the fixed water spray system and Fixed foam system or Semi-fixed
foam system on all floating roof tanks storing Class A & B petroleum.

Foam Flooding System : Selection and design of foam based flooding system should be as
defined in latest “Standard for Foam Systems : NFPA-11 & 11A”.

Clean Agent Flooding System : Selection and design of clean agent based flooding system
should be in line with the “Standard on Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems - NFPA
2001(Latest Edition).
The clean agent should also comply with the requirements of “Ozone Depletion Substances
Regulation & Control Rules - 2000, Ministry of Environment & Forests, Government of India.
Listed clean agents like Trifluroiodide & others can be used as fire suppressant for floating
roof rim seal fire protection System. Listed clean agents like Fluroketone and others can be
used as fire suppressant in control room & computer rooms.
 The clean agent based protection system consists of an in-built fire detection, control and
actuation mechanism. If a rim seal fire occurs, its heat causes one or more spray nozzles to
open and the extinguishing gas (clean agent) is applied on the surface of fire and
simultaneous alarm is also sounded. Refer (Annexure-V) for a typical system of automatic
rim seal fire protection using clean agent.

3.1.1 The following additional requirements shall be applicable to the installations where inter
distances between tanks in a tank dyke and/or within tank dykes are not conforming to the
provisions of OISD-STD-118 and the tanks in the installation are constructed prior to
publication of 1st Edition of OISD-STD-117 in July’1989.

• Automatic actuated rim seal fire protection system based on foam or clean agent for tanks
having diameter more than 60 m and storing Class A petroleum.
• Fixed foam system or semi-fixed foam system shall also be provided on all tanks
irrespective of diameter.

3.1.1 Water spray system shall be provided on TW loading gantry.

3.1.1 Clean Agent (Halon substitute) based flooding system may be considered for control rooms,
computer rooms and pressurized rooms in major locations having automated pipeline
receipt/dispatch and/or TW/TT loading facilities.

Selection of clean agent and design of fire protection system for control rooms, computer
rooms and pressurized rooms should follow the Standard on “Clean Agent Extinguishing
systems NFPA Standard 2001 (Latest Edition) including its safety guidelines with respect to
“Hazards to Personnel”, electrical clearance and environmental factors in line with
environmental considerations of Kyoto Protocol. Clean agent like Inert gas, Fluroketone can
be used as fire suppressant in control rooms, computer rooms and pressurized rooms.

4.3 FIRE WATER SYSTEM

Water is used for fire extinguishments, fire control, cooling of equipment, exposure
protection of equipment and personnel from heat radiation.

The fire water ring main shall be provided all around perimeter of the installation with
hydrants/monitors spaced at intervals not exceeding 30 m when measured aerially.

4.3.1 Components of Fire Water System

The main components of the system are Fire Water Storage, Fire Water Pumps and
Distribution Piping Network.

4.3.2 Basis

The fire water system in an installation shall be designed to meet the fire water flow
requirement to fight single largest risk at a time.

4.3.2.1 Design Flow Rate

) Fire water flow rate for a tank farm shall be aggregate of the following :-
 • Water flow calculated for cooling a tank on fire at a rate of 3 lpm/m² of tank shell area.

• Water flow calculated for exposure protection for all other tanks falling within a radius of (R
+30)m from centre of the tank on fire (R-Radius of tank on fire) and situated in the same
dyke at a rate of 3 lpm/m² of tank shell area.

• Water flow calculated for exposure protection for all other tanks falling outside a radius of
(R+30)m from centre of the tank on fire and situated in the same dyke at a rate of 1 lpm/m2
of tank shell area.

• For water flow calculations, all tanks farms having class A or B petroleum storage shall be
considered irrespective of diameter of tanks and whether fixed water spray system is
provided or not.

• Water flow required for applying foam on a single largest tank by way of fixed foam system,
where provided, or by use of water/foam monitors. (Refer section 4.4.8 for foam solution
application rates.)

• Various combinations shall be considered in the tank farm for arriving at different fire water
flow rate and the largest rate to be considered for design.

i) Fire water flow for pump house shed at cross country pipeline installations shall be at a rate
of 10.2 lpm/m².

ii) Fire water flow rate for TW loading gantry (Refer Annexure – II) and product pump house in
a depot or terminal shall be calculated at a rate of @ 10.2 lpm/m2.
However, if pump house of volatile product/s is located under pipe rack fire water flow rate
shall be calculated at a rate of 20.4 lpm/m2.

ii) Fire water flow rate for supplementary streams shall be based on using 4 single hydrant
outlets and 1 monitor simultaneously. Capacity of each hydrant outlet as 36 m3/hr and of
each monitor as 144 m3/hr minimum may be considered at a pressure of 7 kg/cm2(g).

The design fire water rate shall be the largest of [4.3.2.1 (i)], [4.3.2.1 (ii)], [4.3.2.1 (iii)], or
[4.3.2.1 (iv)]. (Refer Annexure-I).
4.3.3 Header Pressure

Fire water system shall be designed for a minimum residual pressure of 7 kg/cm2(g) at
hydraulically remotest point in the installation considering single largest risk scenario.

4.3.4 Storage

Water for the fire fighting shall be stored in easily accessible surface or underground or
above ground tanks of steel, concrete or masonry.
The effective capacity of the reservoir/tank above the level of suction point shall be minimum
4 hours aggregate rated capacity of pumps. However, where reliable make up water supply
is 50% or more of design flow rate, the storage capacity may be reduced to 3 hours
aggregate rated capacity of pumps.
 Fresh water should be used for fire fighting purposes. In case sea water or treated effluent
water is used for fire fighting purposes, the material of the pipe selected shall be suitable for
the service.

The installation shall have facilities for receiving and diverting all the water coming to the
installation to fire water storage tanks in case of an emergency.

Storage reservoir shall be in two equal interconnected compartments to facilitate

cleaning and repairs. In case of steel tanks there shall be minimum two tanks each having
50 % of required capacity.

Large natural reservoirs having water capacity exceeding 10 times the aggregate water
requirement of fire pumps may be left unlined.

4.3.5 Fire Water Pumps

(i) Fire water pumps having flooded suction shall be installed to meet the design fire water flow
rate and head.
If fire water is stored in underground tanks, an overhead water tank of sufficient capacity
shall be provided for flooded suction and accounting for leakages in the network, if any.

(ii) The pumps shall be capable of discharging 150% of its rated discharge at a minimum of 65%
of the rated head. The Shut-off head shall not exceed 120% of rated head for horizontal
centrifugal pumps and 140% for vertical turbine pump.

(iii) At least one standby fire water pump shall be provided up to 2 nos. of main pumps. For main
pumps 3 nos. and above, minimum 2 nos. standby pumps of the same type, capacity &
head as the main pumps shall be provided.

(iv) The fire water pump(s) including the standby pump(s) shall be of diesel engine driven type.
Where electric supply is reliable, 50% of the pumps may be electric driven. The diesel
engines shall be quick starting type with the help of push buttons located on or near the
pumps or located at a remote location. Each engine shall have an independent fuel tank
adequately sized for 6 hours continuous running of the pump.

(iv) Fire water pumps & storage shall be located at 30 m (minimum) away from equipment or
where hydrocarbons are handled or stored.

(iv) Fire water pumps shall be exclusively used for fire fighting purpose only.

(iv) Suction and discharge valves of fire water pumps shall be kept full open all the times.

(iv) The fire water network shall be kept pressurized by static water tank or jockey pump(s).

(iv) In case jockey pump is used for pressurization, a standby jockey pump of similar type,
capacity & head shall be provided.
4.3.6 Fire Water Network

(i) Looping

The fire water network shall be laid in closed loops as far as possible to ensure multi-
directional flow in the system. Isolation valves shall be provided in the network to enable
isolation of any section of the network without affecting the flow in the rest. The isolation
valves shall be located normally near the loop junctions. Additional valves shall be provided
in the segments where the length of the segment exceeds 300 m.

(ii) Above / Underground Network

The fire water network steel piping should normally be laid above ground at a height of at
least 300 mm above finished ground level. Pipes made of composite material shall be laid
underground.

However, the ring main shall be laid underground at the following places.

• Road crossings.
• Places where above ground piping is likely to cause obstruction to operation and vehicle
movement.
• Places where above ground piping is likely to get damaged mechanically.
• Where frost conditions warrants and ambient temperature is likely to fall subzero, above
ground piping shall be laid at least 1 m below the finished grade level to avoid freezing of
water. Alternatively, water circulation may be carried out in the above ground pipelines or
any other suitable means.

(iii) Protection of underground pipeline

If fire water ring mains are laid underground, the following shall be ensured :-

• The ring main shall have at least 1 m earth cushion in open ground, 1.5 m cushion under the
road crossings and in case of crane movement area pipeline may be protected with
concrete/steel encasement as per design requirement.
• For rail crossing, provisions stipulated by Indian Railways shall be complied.
• The under ground ring main shall be protected against soil corrosion by suitable
coating/wrapping with or without cathodic protection.
• Pipe supports under the pipe line shall be suitable for the soil conditions.

(iv) Support & Protection of above ground pipelines

The mains shall be supported at regular intervals not exceeding 6 m. For pipeline size less
than 150 mm, support interval shall not exceed 3 m.

The pipe support shall have only point contact.

The system for above ground portion shall be analyzed for flexibility against thermal
expansion and necessary expansion loops, guides/cross guides and supports provided.
 (v) Sizing of pipeline

Fire water ring main shall be sized for 120% of the design water flow rate. Design flow rates
shall be distributed at nodal points to give the most realistic way of water requirements in an
emergency. It may be necessary to assume several combinations of flow requirement for
design of network.

The stand post for hydrants and monitors shall be sized to meet the respective design water
flow rates.

(vi) General

Connections for fixed water monitors on the network shall be provided with independent
isolation valves.

Fire water mains shall not pass through buildings or dyke areas.
In case of underground mains the isolation valves shall be located in RCC/brick masonry
chamber of suitable size to facilitate operation during emergency & maintenance.

4.3.7 Hydrants & Monitors

i) Hydrants shall be located bearing in mind the fire hazards at different sections of the
premises to be protected and to give most effective service. At least one hydrant post shall
be provided for every 30 m of external wall measurement or perimeter of battery limit in case
of high hazard areas. For non-hazardous area, they shall be spaced at 45 m intervals. The
horizontal range & coverage of hydrants with hose connections shall not be considered
beyond 45 m.

ii) Hydrants shall be located at a minimum distance of 15 m from the periphery of storage tank
or equipment under protection. In case of buildings this distance shall not be less than 2 m
and not more than 15 m from the face of building. Provision of hydrants within the building
shall be provided in accordance with IS : 3844.

iii) Hydrant/Monitors shall be located along road side berms for easy accessibility.

iv) Double headed hydrants with two separate landing valves or monitor on suitably sized stand
post shall be used. All hydrant outlets/monitor isolation valves shall be situated at workable
height above ground or hydrant/monitor operating platform level.

v) Monitors shall be located to direct water on the object as well as to provide water shield to
firemen approaching a fire.
The requirement of monitors shall be established based on hazards involved and layout
considerations. Monitors shall not be installed within 15 m of hazardous equipment.

The location of the monitors shall not exceed 45 m from the hazard to be protected.

However, high volume long range monitors, if provided shall be located more than 45 m
from the hazardous equipment & their water header/s sized accordingly to meet the rated
water flow rate of monitor as well as design water flow requirement of single largest risk
scenario.
 vi) Hydrants and monitors shall not be installed inside the dyke areas. However, as an
additional requirement, oscillating monitors may be provided in inaccessible area within the
dyke with isolation valve or ROV outside the tank farm, where inter distances between tanks
in a dyke and/or within dykes are not meeting the requirements of OISD-STD-118.

) TW/TT loading & unloading facilities shall be provided with alternate hydrant and water-cum-
foam monitors having multipurpose combination nozzles for jet, spray & fog arrangement
and located at a spacing of 30 m on both sides of the gantry. The hydrants & monitors shall
be located at a minimum distance of 15 m from the hazard (e.g. TW & TT loading/unloading
facilities) to be protected.

) Hydrants/Monitors shall preferably be located with branch connection.

4.3.8 Material Specifications

The materials used in fire water system shall be of approved type as indicated below :-

i) Pipes
Carbon Steel as per IS:3589/IS:1239/IS:1978 or Composite Material or it’s equivalent for
fresh water service.

In case saline, brackish or treated effluent water is used, the fire water ring main of steel
pipes, internally cement mortar lines or glass reinforced epoxy coated or pipes made of
material suitable for the quality of water shall be used. Alternately, pipes made of composite
materials shall be used.

The composite material to be used shall be as per API 15LR/API 15HR.

ii) Isolation Valves

Gate or butterfly type isolation valves made of Cast Steel having open/close indication shall
be used. Other materials such as cupro-nickel for saline/brackish water may be used.

iii) Hydrants
Stand post - Carbon Steel
Outlet valves - Gunmetal/ Aluminum/
Stainless/ Steel/Al-Zn Alloy
iv) Monitors
As per IS/UL or Equivalent Standard.

v) Fire Hoses
Reinforced Rubber Lined Hose as per IS 636 (Type A)/Non-percolating Synthetic Hose
(Type B)/UL or Equivalent Standard.

(vi) Fire water mains, hydrant & monitor stand posts, risers of water spray system shall be
painted with “Fire Red” paint as per of IS:5.
vi) Hose boxes, water monitors and hydrant outlets shall be painted with “Luminous Yellow”
paint as per IS:5.
vii) Corrosion resistant paint shall be used in corrosion prone areas.
4.3.9 FIXED WATER SPRAY SYSTEM
) Fixed water spray system is a fixed pipe system connected to a reliable source of water
supply and equipped with water spray nozzles for specific water discharge and distribution
over the surface of area to be protected. The piping system is connected to the hydrant
system water supply through an automatically or manually actuated valve which initiates the
flow of water.

In case the system is manually actuated, the isolation valve shall be located outside the
dyke for ease of access & operation.

i) Spray nozzles shall be directed radially to the tank at a distance not exceeding 0.6 m from
the tank surface. Only one type and size of spray nozzle shall be used in a particular facility.

i) While calculating the water rates for spray application for cases other than tanks/vessels,
the area should be divided into suitable segments so that maximum water requirement can
be optimized. (Refer Annexure-II for typical calculations).

4.4 FOAM SYSTEMS

4.4.1 Types of Foam

Foams are classified by producing action of generation and expansion. Foam concentrate to
be used shall conform to IS:4989 2006/UL-162 or Equivalent Standard (Annexure – IV)

4.4.2 Types of Low Expansion Foam

For combating large hydrocarbon fires particularly in a contained area like storage tank,
foam has proved useful for its inherent blanketing ability, heat resistance and security
against burn-back. Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) compound is technically superior
and compatible with other fire fighting agents.

Efficient and effective foam delivery system is a vital tool for its usefulness in controlling the
fire.

The process of adding or injecting the foam concentrate to water is called proportioning.
The mixture of water and foam compound (foam solution) is then mixed with air in a foam
maker for onward transmission to burning surface.

4.4.3 CONVEYING SYSTEMS

The system consists of an adequate water supply, supply of foam concentrate, suitable
proportioning equipment, a proper piping system, foam makers and discharge devices
designed to adequately distribute the foam over the hazard.

Conventional systems are of the open outlet type in which foam discharges from all foam
outlets at the same time, covering the entire hazard within the confines of the system. There
are three types of systems :-
i) Fixed
ii) Semi-Fixed
iii) Mobile
 (i) Fixed Foam System

Fixed foam conveying system comprises of fixed piping for water supply at adequate
pressure, foam concentrate tank, eductor, suitable proportioning equipment for drawing
foam concentrate and making foam solution, fixed piping system for onward conveying to
foam makers for making foam, vapor seal box and foam pourer.

(ii) Semi-Fixed Foam System

Semi-fixed foam system gets supply of foam solution through the mobile foam tender. A
fixed piping system connected to foam makers cum vapor seal box in case of cone roof
tanks and foam maker and foam pourers in the case of floating roof tanks conveys foam to
the surface of tank.

(iii) Mobile System

Mobile system includes foam producing unit mounted on wheels which may be self
propelled or towed by a vehicle. These units supply foam through monitors/foam towers to
the burning surface.

(iv) Sub-surface foam injection

This system is for protection of fixed roof storage tanks. It comprises of high back pressure
foam generator connected through product lines or separate lines near the bottom of the
tank.
(v) Under the Seal Foam application

This is a system for floating roof tank where the foam travels through a flexible pipe inside the
tank upto the center of the tank roof and exits at the seal rim of the floating roof precisely
where the fire is located thus rapidly flooding the seal rim area and quickly extinguishing the
fire.

4.4.4 FLOATING ROOF TANK PROTECTION

For floating roof tank, foam shall be poured at the foam dam to blanket the roof seal.
Features of foam system for floating roof tank protection shall be as follows :-

ii) System be designed to create foam blanket on the burning surface in a reasonably short
period.

i) Foam shall be applied to the burning hazard continuously at a rate high enough to overcome
the destructive effects of radiant heat.

i) Foam makers/foam pourers shall be located not more than 24 m apart on the shell perimeter
based on 600 mm foam dam height.

i) A minimum of two foam pourers shall be provided.

4.4.5 FIXED ROOF TANK PROTECTION

Foam conveying system shall have same features as of floating roof tank excepting that a
vapor seal chamber is required before the foam discharge outlet.

Features of the foam system for fixed roof protection shall be as follows:

) The vapor seal chamber shall be provided with an effective and durable seal, fragile under
low pressure, to prevent entrance of vapour into the foam conveying piping system.

) Where two or more pourers are required these shall be equally spaced at the periphery of
the tank and each discharge outlet shall be sized to deliver foam at approximately the same
rate.

) Tanks should be provided with foam discharge outlets/pourers as indicated below :-

Tank diameter Foam Pourer

( In M) (Min. Nos.)

Above 18 & up to 20 2
Above 20 & up to 25 3
Above 25 & up to 30 4
Above 30 & up to 35 5
Above 35 & up to 40 6
Above 40 & up to 45 8
Above 45 & up to 50 10

In case foam pourers are provided on tanks having diameter up to 18 m, minimum 2 nos.
foam pourers shall be provided.

The estimation of number of foam discharge outlet is based on pourer capacity of 1000 lpm
at a pressure of 7 kg/cm2 (g) upstream of eductor. This can be suitably adjusted for different
pourer capacity in accordance with section 4.4.4 (iii).

4.4.6 FLOATING CUM FIXED ROOF TANK PROTECTION

Protection facilities shall be provided as required for fixed roof tank.

4.4.7 PROTECTION FOR DYKE AREA/SPILL FIRE

Portable monitors/foam hose streams shall be considered for fighting fires in dyked area and
spills.

4.4.8 FOAM APPLICATION RATE

The minimum delivery rate for primary protection based on the assumption that all the foam
reaches the area being protected shall be as indicated below :-
 For cone roof tanks containing liquid hydrocarbons, the foam solution delivery rate shall be
at least 5 lpm/m2 of liquid surface area of the tank to be protected.

For floating roof tanks containing liquid hydrocarbons foam solution delivery rate shall be at
least 12 lpm/m2 of seal area with foam dam height of 600 mm of the tank to be protected.

In determining total solution flow requirements, potential foam losses from wind and other
factors shall be considered.

4.4.9 DURATION OF FOAM DISCHARGE

The equipment shall be capable of providing primary protection at the specified delivery
rates for the following minimum duration.

i) Tanks containing Class 'A' & 'B' 65 minutes.

ii) Where the system's primary purpose is for spill fire protection 30 minutes.

4.4.10 WATER FOR FOAM MAKING

Water quantity required for making foam solution depends on the percent concentration of
foam compound. Foams in normal use have a 3% to 6% proportioning ratio. However, foam
supplier data shall be used for determining water requirement.

4.4.11 FOAM QUANTITY REQUIREMENT

The aggregate quantity of foam solution should be calculated as below :-

i) Foam solution application at the rate of 5 lpm/m2 for the liquid surface of the single largest
cone roof tank or at the rate of 12 lpm/m2 of seal area of the single largest floating roof tank
whichever is higher. (Annexure-III).
i) Based on the size of the terminal, quantity of foam solution required should be calculated
as per the following guidelines :-

Size of Terminal Water/Foam

(In KL) Monitor (Nos.)

For Installation having Nil.

aggregate capacity of
1000 KL

For Installation having 1 No. of

aggregate capacity up 1600 lpm.
to 10,000 KL

For Installation having 1 No. of

aggregate capacity up 2400 lpm.
to 25,000 KL

For Installation having 2 Nos. of

aggregate capacity 2400 lpm.
more than 25,000 KL
 ii) Two hose streams of foam each with a capacity of 1140 lpm of foam solution.

The aggregate quantity of foam solutions should be largest of 4.4.11(i), 4.4.11(ii) and 4.4.11
(iii) as above for a minimum period of 65 minutes. From this the quantity of foam based on
3% or 6% proportion should be calculated.
However, for installation having aggregate storage not more than 10,000 KL, the foam
concentrate storage shall be based on 4.4.1(i) only.

In case of Aviation Fuelling Stations where aggregate product storage capacity is less than
1000 KL, foam quantity for spill fire protection of 30 minutes shall be made.

3.3.11 FOAM COMPOUND STORAGE

Foam compound should be stored as explained in IS-4989:2006/UL-162.

Type of foam compound to be used can be protein, fluro-protein or AFFF. Alcohol Resistant
Foam shall be used for handling methanol/ ethanol or furfural fires. Minimum 1 KL of
Alcohol Resistant Foam compound shall be maintained at the installation to handle
methanol/ethanol or furfural fire.

Shelf life of foam compound shall be taken from manufacturer's data.

Foam compound shall be tested periodically as per OEM guidelines to ensure its quality and
the deteriorated quantity replaced. The deteriorated foam compound can be used for fire
training purposes. For details of type of tests & their periodicity, refer IS 4989 : 2006/UL-
162 or Equivalent Standard.

Quantity of foam compound equal to 100% of requirement as calculated in 4.4.11should be

stored in the Installation. Note 2 This quantity may be suitably reduced, if mutual aid for foam
supply is available. For sample calculation, refer (Annexure- III).

4.5 CLEAN AGENT FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM

4.5.1 General

Clean agent fire extinguishing system as per NFPA-2001 (Latest edition) shall be
considered for such protection system.

The Protection System broadly consists of container, feed lines, ring mains/laterals, spray
nozzles, signaling equipment and cables, heat detection and actuation devices.

The Protection System can detect, control & extinguish the fire and also simultaneously give
audio visual indication on the control panel.

4.5.2 Recommended Use

The system may be considered for protection of floating roof tanks, control rooms and
computer rooms.

4.5.3 QUANTITY AND STORAGE

 Each hazard area to be protected by the protection system shall have an independent
system.

The time needed to obtain the gas for replacement to restore the systems shall be
considered as a governing factor in determining the reserve supply needed. 100% standby
containers shall be considered for each protected hazard.

Storage containers shall be located as near as possible to hazard area but shall not be
exposed to fire.

Storage containers shall be carefully located so that they are not subjected to mechanical,
chemical or other damage.

All the components of the system shall be capable of withstanding heat of fire and severe
weather conditions.

4.5.4 FLOATING ROOF TANK PROTECTION

Floating roof tank may be protected by clean agent or foam flooding based fire extinguishing
system for its in built detection, control and actuation mechanism. If a rim seal fire occurs, its
heat causes one or more spray nozzles to open and the foam/gas is applied on the surface
of fire and alarm is sounded.

This is in addition to the fixed water spray system and Fixed foam system or Semi-fixed
foam system on all floating roof tanks storing Class A & B petroleum.
Floating roof tanks of 60 m and above diameter may be considered for protection by
installing such systems.

1.1.1 CONTROL ROOM AND COMPUTER ROOM PROTECTION

Control room and computer room may be protected by Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing
System.

It is considered good practice to avoid unnecessary exposure to Clean Agent Fire

Extinguishing System. In order to minimize the exposure, persons should be evacuated from
the areas before the system comes into operation.

4.6 FIRST AID FIRE FIGHTING EQUIPMENT

4.6.1 Portable Fire Extinguishers

i) All fire extinguishers shall conform to respective IS/UL or Equivalent codes, viz. 10 Kg
DCP Type (IS:2171/UL 299), 4.5/6,8 Kg CO2 Type (IS:2878/UL 154) & 25/50/75 Kg
DCP Type (IS:10658/UL 299) and bear ISI/UL mark. BIS/UL or Equivalent certificates of
all extinguishers shall be maintained at the location.
ii) While selecting the Extinguisher, due consideration should be given to the factors like
flow rate, discharge time and throw in line with IS:2190 / UL 711.
iii) The Dry Chemical Powder used in extinguisher and carbon dioxide gas used as
expelling agent shall be as per relevant IS/UL or Equivalent code.
ii) While selecting the dry chemical powder, due consideration should be given to the
typical properties viz. Apparent Density (0.65 +/- 0.05), Fire Rating (144B), Thermal
Gravimetric Analysis (with decomposition at around 250oC) and foam compatibility.
ii) Siliconised Potassium bicarbonate DCP powder (IS 4308:2003) / Mono-ammonium
phosphate based DCP powder (IS: 14609) can also be used for recharging DCP fire
extinguishers.
ii) Spare CO2 cartridges and DCP refills as required based on their shelf life should be
maintained. However, minimum 10% of the total charge in the extinguishers should be
maintained at the location.
ii) Portable fire extinguishers shall be located at convenient locations and are readily
accessible and clearly visible at all times.
ii) The sand buckets shall have round bottom with bottom handle having 9 liter water
capacity conforming to IS:2546. The sand stored in bucket shall be fine and free from
oil, water or rubbish.
ii) Rain protection of suitable design should be provided for all extinguishers & sand
buckets.
ii) The maximum running distance to locate an extinguisher shall not exceed 15 m.
ii) The extinguisher shall be installed in such a way that its top surface is not be more
than 1.5 m above the floor/ground level.
ii) The no. of extinguishers at various locations shall be provided as under.

Petroleum Depots, Terminals & Lube Oil Installations

Sr. No. Type of Area Scale of Portable Fire Extinguishers

(i) Lube Godown 1 No. 10 Kg DCP extinguisher for every 200 m2 or
min. 2 Nos. in each Godown whichever is higher.
(ii) Lube Filling Shed 1 No. 10 Kg DCP extinguisher for 200 m2 or min.
2 Nos. in each Shed whichever is higher
(iii) Storage of (Class A/B) 1 No. 10 Kg DCP extinguisher for 100 m2 or min.
in packed containers and 2 Nos. in each Storage Area whichever is higher.
stored in open/closed area.
(iv) Pump House (Class A/B) 1 No. 10 Kg DCP for 2 pumps.
Up to 50 HP 1 No. 10 Kg DCP for each pump.
Above 50-100 HP 2 Nos. of 10 kg or 1 no. of 25 kg DCP for each
Beyond 100 HP pump.
(v) Pump House (Class C)
Up to 50 HP 1 no. 10Kg DCP for every 4 pumps up to 50 HP.
Above 50 HP 2 nos. 10 Kg DCP or 1x25 kg DCP for 4 pumps.
(vi) Tank Truck loading & 1 No. 10 Kg DCP extinguisher for each bay plus
unloading gantry for 1 No. 75 Kg DCP extinguisher for each gantry.
POL/Special products
(vii) Tank Wagon loading 1 No. 10 Kg DCP extinguisher for every 30 m of
and unloading gantry/siding gantry/siding plus 1 No. 75 Kg DCP extinguisher
for each gantry/siding.
(viii) A/G Tank Farm 2 Nos. 10 Kg DCP extinguishers for each tank
plus 4 Nos. 25 Kg DCP extinguishers for each
Tank Farm positioned at four corners. In case of
adjoining tank farms, the no. of
25 Kg extinguishers may be reduced by 2 nos. per
tank farm.
 (ix) U/G Tank Farm 2 Nos. 10 Kg DCP extinguisher for each Tank
Farm
(x) Other Pump Houses 1 No. 10 Kg DCP extinguisher for every two
pumps or min 2 Nos. 10 Kg DCP extinguisher for
each Pump House whichever is higher.
(xi) Admin. Building/Store 1 No. 10 Kg DCP extinguisher for every 200 m2 or
House min. 2 Nos. 10 Kg DCP extinguishers for each
floor of Building/Store whichever is higher.
(xii) DG Room 2 Nos. each 10 Kg DCP & 4.5 Kg CO2
extinguishers for each DG room.
(xiii) Main switch Room/Sub- 1 No. 4.5 Kg CO2 extinguisher for every 25 m2
Station plus 1 No. 9 Liter sand bucket.
(xiv) Computer Room/ Cabin 2 Nos. of 2 Kg CO2 or 2 Nos. of 2.5 Kg Clean
Agent extinguisher per Computer Room and 1 No.
2 Kg CO2 or 1 No. 1.0 Kg Clean Agent
extinguisher per cabin.
(xv) Security Cabin 1 No. 10 Kg DCP extinguisher per cabin.
(xvi) Canteen 1 No. 10 Kg DCP extinguisher for 100 m2.
(xvii) Workshop 1 No. 10 Kg DCP extinguisher & 1 No. 2 Kg CO2
extinguisher.
(xviii) Laboratory 1 No. 10 Kg DCP extinguisher & 1 No. 4.5 Kg
CO2 extinguisher.
(xix) Oil Sample Storage Room 1 No. 10 Kg DCP extinguisher per 100 m2 or min.
1 no. 10 Kg extinguisher per room whichever is
higher.
(xx) Effluent Treatment Plant 1 No. 75 Kg. & 2 nos. 10 Kg. DCP Extinguisher
(xxi) Transformer 1 No. 10 Kg. DCP extinguisher per transformer.
(xxii) UPS / Charger Room 1 No. 2 Kg. CO2 extinguisher.

NOTE :- ALL FIRE EXTINGUISHERS SHALL BEAR ISI OR EQUIVALENT MARK

Pipeline Installations

For pipeline installations, the portable extinguisher shall be provided as per the above list
(4.6.1) suitably amended along with following additions :-

Sr. No. Type of Area Scale of Portable Fire Extinguishers

(i) Main line pump shed 1 No. 75 Kg DCP, 10 Kg DCP & 6.8 Kg CO2
(Engine/Motor Driven) extinguishers per two pumps up to a maximum of
4 nos.
(ii) Booster Pump 1 No. 10 Kg DCP per two pumps up to a
maximum of 3 nos. and 1 No. 6.8 Kg CO2
extinguisher.
(iii) Sump Pump, 1 No. 10 Kg DCP extinguisher.
Transmix Pump & Oil
Water Separator Pump
(iv) Scrapper Barrel 1 No. 10 Kg DCP extinguisher.
(v) Control Room 2 Nos. 2.5 Kg Clean Agent and 1 No. 4.5 Kg CO2
extinguisher.
(vi) UHF / Radio Room 2 Nos. 2.5 Kg Clean Agent and 1 No. 4.5 Kg CO2
 extinguisher.
(vii) Meter Prover/Separator 1 No. 10 Kg DCP extinguisher.
Filter
(viii) Repeater Station 1 No. 10 Kg DCP & 1 No. 2 Kg CO2 extinguisher.
(ix) Mainline Emergency 4 Nos. 10 Kg DCP & 2 Nos.
Equipment Centre 2 Kg CO2 extinguishers.
(x) Air Compressor 1 No. 2 Kg CO2 & 1 No. 5 Kg DCP extinguisher.

4.6.2 Wheeled Fire Fighting Equipment

For Installations having tanks of diameter larger than 9 m, following fire fighting equipment
shall be provided:-

Size of Terminal (In KL) Water/Foam Monitor (Nos.)

For installation having aggregate Nil.
capacity of 1000 KL
For installation having aggregate 1 No. of 1600 lpm.
capacity up to 10,000 KL
For installation having aggregate 1 No. of 2400 lpm.
capacity up to 25,000 KL
For installation having aggregate 2 Nos. of 2400 lpm.
capacity more than 25,000 KL

Foam compound trolley 200/210 liters shall be provided as Under :-

Tank diameter (In m) Foam Compound Trolley (Nos.)

Up to 24 m 1 No.
24 m - 30 m 2 Nos.
Above 30 m 3 Nos.
4.6.3 HOSES, NOZZLES & ACCESSORIES
(i) Hoses
) Reinforced rubber lined canvas or Non-
percolating synthetic fire hoses
conforming to IS- 636/ UL 19 (Type A or
B) shall be provided.
) The length and diameter of the hoses
shall be 15 m and 63 mm respectively
fitted with instantaneous type male &
female couplings of material as
specified in IS 636/UL 19.
) The number of hoses stored in an oil
installation shall be 30% of the number
of hydrant outlets. The minimum No. of
hoses stored, however, shall not be less
than 10.
) The hoses shall be stored at convenient
and easily accessible location in the oil
installation.
(ii) Nozzles
In addition to the jet nozzle provided in
each hose box, there shall be at least
two nozzles in each category viz. Jet
nozzle with branch pipe, Fog nozzle,
Universal nozzle, Foam branch pipe and
Water curtain nozzle as per relevant
IS/UL Codes maintained at the location.
(iii) Accessories
The following minimum no. of Personal
Protective Equipment, First Aid
Equipment & Safety Instrument shall be
provided as indicated against each item.
Sand drum with scoop : 4 Nos.
Safety helmet : 1 No. per person.
Stretcher with blanket : 2 Nos.
First Aid box : 1 No.
Rubber hand glove : 2 Pairs.
Explosimeter : 1 No.
Fire proximity suit : 1 Suit.
Resuscitator : 1 No.
Electrical siren (3 Km range) : 1 No.
Hand operated siren : One each at
strategic locations such as Admn Bldg,
Laboratory, T/L Loading/Unloading
Facility, T/W Loading/Unloading Facility,
Tank Farm, FW Pump House & Product
Pump House (s).
Water jel blanket : 1 No.
Red & Green flag for fire drill : 2 Nos. in
each color.
SCBA Set (30 minute capacity) : 1 Set
with spare cylinder.
PA System - 1 No.
Hose box : Between two hydrant points.
Fire hose : 2 Nos. per hose box.
Jet nozzle : 1 No. in each hose box.
The above guidelines are minimum
requirement of each item and can be
increased depending on the scale of
operations/size of installation or
requirement of Local Statutory
Bodies/State Govt.
A trolley containing Fire Proximity Suit,
B. A. Set, Water Jel Blanket,
Resuscitator, First Aid Box, Stretcher
with blanket, Spare fire hoses, Special
purpose nozzles, Foam branch pipes,
Explosimeter, P. A. System shall be
readily available at the location and
positioned to have easy access to it
during emergency situation.
4.7 MOBILE FIRE FIGHTING EQUIPMENT
Mobile fire fighting equipment include
Foam trolleys, Portable water-cum-foam
monitors, etc. In view of comprehensive
Fixed and First Aid Fire protection
equipment recommended in the
Standard, provision of Mobile fire
fighting equipments in the installation is
not considered necessary. However, the
requirement of such equipment may be
reviewed keeping in mind the size,
nature and location of the installation.
5.0 FIRE ALARM/COMMUNICATION
SYSTEM
5.1 FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
 i) Hand operated sirens shall be iv) Installation shall have a ‘Mutual Aid'
provided at strategic locations and arrangement with nearby industries
clearly marked in the installation. to pool in their resources during
i) Electric fire siren shall be installed at emergency.
suitable location with operating
switch located near the risk area at a 6.0 FIRE SAFETY ORGANISATION/
safe, identifiable and easily TRAINING
accessible place.
ii) Electric fire siren shall be audible to 6.1 ORGANISATION
the farthest distance in the
installation and also in the A well defined comprehensive On-
surrounding area up to 1 km from the site Emergency Plan as per OISD-
periphery of the installation. GDN-168 shall be drawn.
iii) Electric fire sirens shall be connected
to feeder to ensure continuous power
6.2 TRAINING
supply during emergency shut down.
iv) The tone of fire siren shall be
different from shift siren. i) The fire fighting training shall be
v) The following fire siren codes should compulsory for all officers, clericals,
be followed for different emergency operators, security, T/T drivers &
situations. contract workmen who are likely to
be present in the installation.
• FIRE : For fire situation, the siren ii) Training on fire & safety aspects to
shall be wailing sound for 2 all concerned shall be imparted as
minutes. per OISD-STD-154 & record
maintained.
• DISASTER : For disaster
iii) Every employee or authorized
situation, the siren shall be wailing
person of contractor working in the
sound for 2 minutes repeated
installation shall be familiarized with
thrice with a gap of 10 seconds.
fire siren codes and the location of
• ALL CLEAR : For all clear
fire siren operating switch nearest to
situation, the siren shall be
his place of work.
straight run sound for 2 minutes.
iv) Instructions on the action to be taken
• TEST SIREN : For testing, the in the event of fire should be pasted
siren shall be straight run sound at each siren point and familiarity
for 2 minutes. with these instructions ensured and
recorded.
5.2 COMMUNICATION SYSTEM v) Monthly fire drills considering various
scenarios shall be conducted
i) Communication system like regularly with full involvement of all
Telephone, Public Address System, employees of the installation.
etc. should be provided in non- vi) Mock disaster drills shall be
hazardous areas of the installation. conducted periodically as per local
statutory requirements.
ii) In hazardous areas, flame- vii) The post drill analysis should be
proof/intrinsically safe Paging carried out & discussed emphasizing
System, Walkie-talkie system or VHF areas of improvements.
Set shall be provided. viii) The record of such drills should be
maintained at the location.

iii) Wherever possible hot line 7.0 FIRE EMERGENCY MANUAL

connection between City Fire
Brigade & nearby industries shall be i) Each installation shall prepare a
provided for major installation on comprehensive fire emergency
need basis.
manual covering all emergency
 scenarios detailing the actions to be
taken in the event of fire emergency
for effective handling.
ii) The key action points of this manual
shall be displayed at strategic
locations in the installation for ready
reference.
8.0 FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM,
INSPECTION AND TESTING
i) The fire protection equipment shall be
kept in good working condition all the
time.
ii) The fire protection system shall be
periodically tested for proper
functioning and logged for record and
corrective actions.
iii) One officer shall be designated and
made responsible for inspection,
maintenance & testing of fire
protection system.
iv) The responsibilities of each officer
shall be clearly defined, explained and
communicated to all concerned in
writing for role clarity.
v) In addition to the following routine
checks/maintenance, the
requirements of OISD-STD-142 in
respect of periodic inspection,
maintenance & testing of fire fighting
equipment shall be complied with.
8.1 FIRE WATER PUMPS
i) Every pump shall be test run for at
least half an hour or as per OEM
guidelines, whichever is higher twice a
week at the rated head & flow.
ii) Each pump shall be checked, tested
and its shut-off pressure observed
once in a month.
iii) Each pump shall be checked & tested
for its performance once in six month
by opening required nos. of
hydrants/monitors depending on the
capacity of the pump to verify that the
discharge pressure, flow & motor load
are in conformity with the design
parameters.
i) Each pump shall be test run
continuously for 4 hours at its rated
head & flow using circulation line of
fire water storage tanks and
observations logged once a year.
i) The testing of standby jockey pump, if
provided shall be checked weekly.
Frequent starts & stops of the pump
indicates that there are water leaks in
the system which should be attended
to promptly.
8.2 FIRE WATER RING MAINS
() The ring main shall be checked for
leaks once in a year by operating one
or more pumps & keeping the hydrant
points closed to get the maximum
pressure.
() The ring mains, hydrant, monitor &
water spray header valves shall be
visually inspected for any missing
accessories, defects, damage and
corrosion every month and records
maintained.
() All valves on the ring mains,
hydrants, monitors & water spray
headers shall be checked for leaks,
smooth operation and lubricated once
in a month.
8.3 FIRE WATER SPRAY SYSTEM
) Water spray system shall be tested for
performance i.e. it’s effectiveness &
coverage once in six months.
) Spray nozzles shall be inspected for
proper orientation, corrosion and
cleaned, if necessary at least once a
year.
) The strainers provided in the water
spray system shall be cleaned once in
a quarter and records maintained.
8.4 FIXED/SEMI FIXED FOAM SYSTEM
 Fixed/Semi fixed foam system on Inspection, testing frequency and
storage tanks should be tested once procedure should be in line with
in six months. This shall include the OISD-STD-142.
testing of foam maker/chamber.
9.0 REFERENCES
The foam maker/chamber should be
1) NFPA 11A - Standard on Low
designed suitably to facilitate
Expansion Foam Systems
discharge of foam outside the cone
roof tank. After testing foam system,
2) NFPA 13 - Standard on
piping should be flushed with water.
Installation of Sprinkler System.
8.5 CLEAN AGENT SYSTEM
3) NFPA 15 - Standard on
Installation of Water Spray
Clean agent fire extinguishing system
System.
should be checked as under :-
4) NFPA 20 - Standard on
) Agent quantity and pressure of
Installation of Centrifugal Fire
refillable containers shall be checked
Pumps.
once every six month.
) The complete system should be
5) NFPA – 2001 (Edition 2004)
inspected for proper operation once
Standard on Clean Agent Fire
every year (Refer latest NFPA
Extinguishing System.
2001(2004 Edition) for details of
inspection of various systems).
6) No.72-289 - French Regulation
for Hydrocarbon Depots.
8.6 HOSES
10) The Petroleum Rules – 2002.
Fire hoses shall be hydraulically
tested once in six months to a water 11) Model Code of Safe Practices
pressure as specified in relevant The Institute of Petroleum (U.K.)
IS/UL/Equivalent codes.
15) International Safe Practices of
8.7 COMMUNICATION SYSTEM Oil Industry.

Electric and hand operated fire sirens 16) IS-3844 : Code of Practice on
should be tested for their maximum Installation of Internal Hydrants
audible range once a week. in Multistory Building.

8.8 FIRE WATER TANK/RESERVOIR 16) OISD-GDN-115 : Guidelines on

Fire Fighting Equipment &
) Above ground fire water tanks should Appliances in Petroleum
be inspected externally & internally as Industry.
per OISD-STD-129.

) The water reservoir shall be emptied 16) OISD-STD-142 : Standard on

out & cleaned once in 3 years. Inspection of Fire Fighting
However, floating leaves, material or Equipment & Systems.
algae, if any shall be removed once in
6 months or as & when required. 16) OISD-STD-154 : Standard on
Safety Aspects in Functional
7.8 FIRE EXTINGUISHERS Training.
 8) IS:14609 : Standard on Dry
4) Ozone Depletion Substances Chemical Powder for Fighting
Regulation & Control Rules - A,B,C Class Fires –
2000 Ministry of Environment & Specifications.
Forests, Government of India.
16) IS:4989 : Standard on Foam
5) Kyoto Protocol. Concentrate for Producing
Mechanical Foam for Fire
6) IS-15683 : Standard on Portable Fighting Flammable Liquid
Fire Extinguishers - Fires - Specifications.
Performance & Construction -
Specifications.
7) IS:4308 : Standard on Dry
Chemical Powder for Fighting B
& C Class Fires –
Specifications.
 ANNEXURE- I

SAMPLE CALCULATION OF FIRE WATER FLOW RATE FOR STORAGE TANKS

1. DESIGN BASIS

The fire water system in an installation shall be designed to meet the fire water flow
requirement of fighting single largest fire scenario.

2. FIRE WATER DEMAND FOR SINGLE LARGEST FIRE

Consider various areas under fire and calculate fire water demand for each area based
on design basis.

2.1 FIRE WATER FLOW RATE FOR FLOATING ROOF TANK PROTECTION

Data
Total storage capacity in one dyke area = 32,000 m3.
No. of tanks = 2.
Capacity of each tank = 16,000 m3.
Diameter of each tank = 40 m.
Height of each tank = 14.4 m.

a) Cooling water flow rate

Cooling water required for tank on fire
Cooling water rate = 3 lpm/m2 of tank area for tank on fire.
Cooling water required = 3.142 x 40 m x 14.4 m x 3 lpm/m2.
= 5426 lpm.
= 5426 x 60 m³/hr = 326 m³/hr.
1000

Assuming that second tank is also located within the same tank dyke at a distance
more than 30 m from the tanks shell. Therefore, in such case cooling required is at
the rate of 1 lpm/m2 of tank shell area.

Cooling water required for tank falling beyond (R+30) from centre of tank on
fire
Cooling water rate = 1 lpm/m2 of tank area.
Cooling water required = 3.142 x 40 m x 14.4 m x 1lpm/m2.
= 1809 lpm.
= 1809 x 60 m³/hr = 109 m³/hr.
1000

a) Foam water flow rate

Foam solution application rate
Foam solution required
Foam water required
(For 3% foam concentrate)
= 12 lpm/m2 of rim seal area of tank.
= 3.142 x 40 m x 0.8 m x 12 lpm/m2.
= 1207 lpm.
= 0.97 x 1207 lpm = 1171lpm.
= 1171 x 60 m³/hr = 71 m³/hr.
1000
 c) Total water flow rate
Tank cooling = 326 + 109 = 435m³/hr.
Foam solution application = 71 m³/hr.
Total = 506 m³/hr.
Say = 510 m³/hr.

2.2 FIRE WATER FLOW RATE FOR CONE ROOF TANK PROTECTION

Data
Total storage capacity in one dyke area = 50,000 m³.
No. of tanks = 4.
Capacity of each tank = 12,500 m³.
Diameter of each tank = 37.5 m.
Height of each tank = 12 m.

a) Cooling water flow rate

Cooling water required for tank on fire
Cooling water rate = 3 lpm/m2 of tank area for tank on fire.
Cooling water required = 3.142 x 37.5 m x 12 m x 3 lpm/m2.
= 4242 lpm.
= 4242 x 60 m³/hr = 255 m³/hr.
1000
Assuming that other three tanks are also located within the same tank dyke at a
distance less than 30 m from the tanks shell. Therefore, in such case cooling
required is at the rate of 3 lpm/m2 of tank shell area.

Cooling water required for tanks falling within (R+30) from centre of tank on fire
Cooling water rate = 3 lpm/m2 of tank area.
Cooling water required = 3.142 x 37.5 m x 12 m x 3 lpm/m2 x 3.
= 12726 lpm.
= 12726 x 60 m³/hr = 764 m³/hr.
1000
Total cooling water required = 254 + 762 = 1019 m3/hr.

b) Foam water flow rate

Foam solution application rate
Foam solution required
Foam water required
(For 3% foam concentrate)
= 5 lpm/m² of liquid surface area.
= 3.142 x (18.75 m)² x 5 lpm/m2.
= 5523 lpm.
= 0.97 x 5523 lpm = 5357 lpm.
= 5357 x 60 m³/hr = 321 m³/hr.
1000

c) Total water flow rate

Tank cooling = 1019 m³/hr.
Foam solution application = 321 m³/hr.
Total = 1340 m³/hr.
2.3 FIRE WATER FLOW RATE FOR COOLING POL TANK WAGON LOADING GANTRY
(Ref Annex - II) : Total water requirement = 932 m3/hr.

2.4 FIRE WATER FLOW RATE FOR SUPPLEMENTARY HOSE STREAMS

Water for 4 single hydrant streams = 4 x 36 = 144 m3/hr.

Water for 1 monitor stream = 144 m3/hr.
Total water requirement = 288 m3 / hr.

3.0 TOTAL DESIGN FIRE WATER FLOW RATE

Total design fire water flow rate would be the largest of fire water flow rates calculated as
per 2.1, 2.2, 2.3 and 2.4 above.

Design fire water rate = 1340 m3/hr.

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 ANNEXURE - II

SAMPLE CALCULATION OF FIRE WATER FLOW RATE FOR POL TANK WAGON LOADING
GANTRY

a) Data

Total No. of loading points = 72 Conventional or 48 BTPN.

No. of loading points on each side = 24 Nos.
Length of Rail Gantry = 700 m.
Width of tank wagon gantry = 12 m.
(Cooling two spur)

b) Cooling water flow rate

Divide total area of gantry into 24 segments, each segment admeasuring 29.2 m X 12 m
and consider 3 segments operating at a time.

Water rate required = 3 x 29.2 m x 12 m x 10.2 lpm/m2.

= 644 m3/hr.
Total water requirement = 644 m3/hr. + 288 m3/hr.
(including hydrant/monitors) = 932 m3/hr.

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ANNEXURE - III

SAMPLE CALCULATION OF FOAM COMPOUND REQUIREMENT FOR A DEPOT/TERMINAL

1.0 FOAM COMPOUND CALCULATION FOR SINGLE LARGEST FLOATING ROOF OR
CONED ROOF TANK IN A DYKE, WHICHEVER IS HIGHER.

0.0 Foam compound calculation for single largest floating roof tank in a dyke.

Tank Data
Total storage capacity in one dyke area = 1,20,000 m3.
No. of tanks = 2.
Capacity of each tank = 60,000 m3.
Diameter of each tank = 79 m.
Height of each tank = 14.4 m.

Foam compound requirement for tank

Foam solution application rate
Foam dam height
Foam solution required
Foam compound required (3%)
Foam compound required for 65 minutes
= 12 lpm/m2 of rim seal area of tank.
= 800 mm.
= 3.142 x 79 m x 0.8 m x 12 lpm/m2.
= 0.03 x 2383 lpm = 71.49 lpm.
= 65 minutes x 71.49 lpm = 4647 litres.

0.0 Foam compound calculation for single largest coned roof tank in a dyke.

Tank Data
Total storage capacity in one dyke area = 50,000 m3.
No. of tanks = 4.
Capacity of each tank = 12,500 m3.
Diameter of each tank = 37.5 m.
Height of each tank = 12 m.

Foam compound requirement for tank

Foam solution application rate = 5 lpm/m2 of liquid surface area of tank.
Foam solution required = 3.142 x (18.75)2 m2 x 5 lpm/m2.
Foam compound required (3%) = 0.03 x 5523 lpm = 165.69 lpm.
Foam compound required for 65 minutes = 65 minutes x165.69 lpm = 10770 lires.

2.0 FOAM COMPOUND CALCULATION FOR INSTALLATION HAVING AGGREGATE

PRODUCT STORAGE CAPACITY MORE THAN 25,000 KL

Foam compound requirement for two portable foam monitors of 2400 lpm capacity
Foam solution required = 2 x 2400 lpm.
Foam compound required (3%) = 0.03 x 4800 lpm = 144 lpm.
Foam compound required for 65 minutes = 65 minutes x 144 lpm = 9360 litres.

3.0 FOAM COMPOUND CALCULATION FOR TWO HOSE STREAMS OF FOAM EACH
WITH A CAPACITY OF 1140 LPM.

Foam compound requirement for two foam hose streams of 1140 lpm capacity
 Foam solution required = 2 x1140 lpm.
Foam compound required (3%) = 0.03 x 2280 lpm = 68.4 lpm.
Foam compound required for 65 minutes = 65 minutes x 68.4 lpm = 4446 litres.

The aggregate quantity of foam concentrate shall be largest of the 1, 2, or 3 as above.

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ANNEXURE-IV

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIRE FIGHTING FOAM

1.0 FIRE FIGHTING FOAM

 Fire fighting foam is a homogeneous mass of tiny air or gas filled bubble of low specific
gravity, which when applied in correct manner and in sufficient quantity, forms a compact
fluid and stable blanket which is capable of floating on the surface of flammable liquids
and preventing atmospheric air from reaching the liquid.

2.0 TYPES OF FOAM COMPOUND

Two Types of foams are used for fighting liquid fires:

2.1 CHEMICAL FOAM

When two or more chemicals are added the foam generates due to chemical reaction.
The most common ingredients used for chemical foam are sodium bicarbonate and
aluminum sulphate with stabilizer. The chemical foam is generally used in fire
extinguishers.

2.2 MECHANICAL FOAM

It is produced by mechanically mixing a gas or air to a solution of foam compound
(concentrate) in water. Various types of foam concentrates are used for generating foam,
depending on the requirement and suitability. Each concentrate has its own advantage
and limitations. The brief description of foam concentrates is given below.

3.0 TYPES OF MECHANICAL FOAM

Mechanical foam compound may be classified into 3 categories based on it's expansion
ratio.

3.1 LOW EXPANSION FOAM

Foam expansion ratio may be upto 50 to 1, but usually between 5:1 to 15:1 as typically
produced by self aspirating foam branch pipes.

The low expansion foam contains more water and has better resistant to fire. It is suitable
for hydrocarbon liquid fires and is widely used in oil refinery, oil platforms, petrochemical
and other chemical industries.

3.2 MEDIUM EXPANSION FOAM

Foam expansion ratio vary from 51:1 to 500:1 as typically produced by self aspirating
foam branch pipes with nets. This foam has limited use in controlling hydrocarbon liquid
fire because of it's limitations w. r. t. poor cooling, poor resistant to hot surface/radiant
heat, etc.

3.4 HIGH EXPANSION FOAM

Foam expansion ratio vary from 501:1 to 1500:1, usually between 750:1 to 1000:1 as
typically produced by foam generators with air fans. This foam also has very limited use
in controlling hydrocarbon liquid fire because of its limitations w. r. t. poor cooling, poor
 resistant to hot surface/radiant heat, etc. It is used for protection of hydrocarbon gases
stored under cryogenic conditions and for warehouse protection.

4.0 TYPES OF LOW EXPANSION FOAM

4.1 PROTEIN FOAM

The foam concentrate is prepared from hydrolyzed protein either from animal or
vegetable source. The suitable stabilizer and preservatives are also added.

The concentrate forms a thick foam blanket and is suitable for hydrocarbon liquid fires,
but not on water miscible liquids. The effectiveness of foam is not very good on deep
pools or low flash point fuels which have had lengthy preburn time unless applied very
gently to the surface.

The concentrate is available for induction rate of 3 to 6%. The shelf life of concentrate is
2 years.

4.2 FLUORO PROTEIN FOAM

This is similar to protein base foam with fluro-chemical which makes it more effective
than protein base foam.

The concentrate forms a thick foam blanket and is suitable for hydrocarbon liquid fires,
but not on water miscible liquids. The foam is very effective on deep pools of low flash
point fuels which have had lengthy pre burn time.

The concentrate is available for induction rate of 3 to 6% and the shelf life is similar to
that of protein base foam.

4.3 AQUEOUS FILM FORMING FOAM (AFFF)

The foam concentrate mainly consists of fluoro carbon surfactants, foaming agent and
stabilizer. This can be used with fresh water as well as with sea water.

It produces very fluid foam, which flows freely on liquid surface. The aqueous film
produced suppresses the liquid vapour quickly. The foam has quick fire knock down
property and is suitable for liquid hydrocarbon fires. As the foam has poor drainage rate,
the effectiveness is limited on deep pool fires of low flash point fuels which have lengthy
pre burn time.

The concentrate is available for induction rate of 3 to 6% and the shelf life is more than
10 years. This can also be used with non aspirating type nozzles.

4.4 MULTIPURPOSE AFFF

Multipurpose AFFF concentrate is synthetic, foaming liquid designed specially for fire
protection of water soluble solvents and water insoluble hydrocarbon liquids. This can be
used either with fresh water or sea water.
 When applied it forms foam with a cohesive polymeric layer on liquid surface, which
suppresses the vapour and extinguishes the fire. The foam is also suitable for deep pool
fires because of superior drainage rate and more resistive to hot fuels/radiant heat.

The 3% induction rate is suitable for liquid hydrocarbon fires and 5% for water miscible
solvents. The shelf life of concentrate is not less than 10 years. This can also be used
with non aspirating type nozzles.

4.5 FILM FORMING FLOURO PROTEIN FOAM (FFFPF)

FFFPF combines the rapid fire knock down quality of conventional film forming AFFF with
the high level of post fire security and burn back resistance of flouro-protein foam. The
concentrate can either be used with fresh water or sea water.

The foam is suitable for hydrocarbon liquid fires including deep pool fires of low flash
point fuels which have had lengthy pre burn time.

The concentrate is available for induction rate of 3 to 6% and the shelf life is 5 years.
This can also be used with non aspirating type nozzles.

5.0 TYPES OF MEDIUM AND HIGH EXPANSION FOAM

Synthetic foam concentrate is used with suitable devices to produce medium and high
expansion foams. This can be used on hydrocarbon fuels with low boiling point. The
foam is very light in weight and gives poor cooling effect in comparison to low expansion
foams. The foam is susceptible to easy break down by hot fuel layers and radiant heat.

The induction rate in water may vary from 1.5 to 3%. Many of the low expansion foam
concentrate can also be used with suitable devices to produce medium / high expansion
foam.

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 ANNEXURE- V

TYPICAL SYSTEM OF AUTOMATIC ACTUATED FOAM/CLEAN AGENT FLOODING

SYSTEM FOR RIM SEAL OF LARGER FLOATING ROOF TANKS

The automatic actuated foam flooding system is a system designed to automatically detect and
extinguish the floating roof tank rim seal fire at its incipient stage. The system is mounted on the
roof of the tank.

Fire Extinguishing Media

Automatic Actuated rim seal fire extinguishing system may be any of the following type :-

1.0 Foam Flooding System.

2.0 Clean Agent Flooding System.

1.0 Foam Flooding System

Selection and design of foam based rim seal fire protection system should be as defined in
the latest NFPA – 11 & 11A Standard for Low and Medium Expansion Foam. Film Forming
Fluro Protein Foam (FFFP) / Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) type concentrate is
normally used in the system.

1.1 Foam Application System

A large storage tank would require more than one modular units for foam application in the
entire rim seal. Each such unit may typically consist of a long foam distribution pipe, laid
along the tank perimeter over the rim seal area. The spray nozzles for foam application are
mounted on the distribution pipe at suitable intervals. Distribution pipe is permanently
connected to a storage vessel containing pre-mix foam and both are placed on the roof. The
foam is kept pressurized with nitrogen The premix foam solution is contained in a vessel
which is kept charged with nitrogen. The system is designed for minimum foam application
rate of @ 18 lpm/m2 of rim seal area. For effective control, foam is applied for a period of 40
seconds.

1.2 Alarm & Auto Actuation System

In case of fire on the rim seal, it is automatically detected by a device capable to sense heat,
flame, smoke, combustible vapors or an abnormal condition in the hazard area which could
produce fire. The device then actuates the spray system for application of foam in the
affected zone of rim seal to quickly extinguish the fire in its incipient stage. An audio-visual
alarm is also coupled with the detection system for necessary fire alert.

The system includes a fire detector network which senses fire and actuates the automatic
release of the extinguishing medium on the rim seal area.

The validity of the approach must be demonstrated by the designer for an effective total
flooding extinguishing system which quickly detects and extinguishes fire in its incipient
stage without re-flash. Also, the design considerations should include the impact of the
weight of the modules placed on the floating roof.
1.3 Typical Calculations for Modular Foam Application System
__
Rim seal area of tank = // x 79 m x 0.3 m = 74.5 m2
(Considering a flexible seal width of typically 300 mm)
Foam solution application rate 18 lpm/m2 = 1341 Liters.
Total foam solution required in 40 seconds = 894 Liters.
Total nos. of modular unit required = 7 Nos.
(Considering a vessel of 150 Liters capacity containing 135 Liters of foam)

2.0 Clean Agent Flooding System

Selection of Clean Agent and system design for fire protection of rim seal should be in line
with the “Standard on Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems – NFPA 2001(Edition 2004)
and the latest”. Typically, any clean agent listed in the latest NFPA 2001 can be used in
normally unoccupied areas like floating roof top. Clean agents like Trifluroiodide can be
used as fire suppressant for floating roof rim seal fire protection system.

2.1 Clean Agent Application System

A large storage tank would require more than one modular units for clean agent application
for the entire rim seal. The pre-engineered system as outlined at 1.4.2.1 of NFPA 2001
(2004 Edition) may typically consist of a long distribution pipe, laid along the tank perimeter
over the rim seal area. The spray nozzles for the clean agent are mounted on the
distribution pipe at suitable intervals. Each distribution pipe is permanently connected to a
storage vessel containing clean agent and both are placed on the roof. The clean agent is
kept pressurized with nitrogen. Design capacity of each modular unit will be based on the
flame extinguishing concentration for the particular fuel and clean agent used.

In case of fire on the rim seal, it is automatically detected by a device capable to sense
heat/flame/smoke/ combustible vapors or an abnormal condition in the hazard area which
could produce fire (refer 4.3.2.1 of NFPA 2001). The device then actuates the spray system
for discharge of clean agent in the affected zone of rim seal at appropriate rate and
discharge time required to attain the flame extinguishing concentration for the particular fuel
based on the design considerations for quick control of fire. It is non-electrically operated
system & suitable for installation in lightening prone areas.

2.2 Alarm & Auto Actuation System

An audio-visual alarm is also coupled with fire detection system for necessary alert. The
validity of the approach must be demonstrated by the designer for a clean agent based
effective automatic actuated extinguishing system which quickly detects and extinguishes
fire in its incipient stage without re-flash. Also, the design considerations should include the
impact of the weight of the modules placed on the floating roof.

2.3 Typical Calculation for Modular Clean Agent Application System

Assuming rim seal perimeter
Each module to cover
Number of modules required
Discharge time for clean agent
__
= // x 79 m = 248.3 m.
= 40 m.
= 248.3 m / 40 m = 6 Nos.
= 10-20 seconds.

Typical diagram of Automatic Actuated Extinguishing System is attached below.

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